The Adventure Program offers a variety of bold activities and services for those wanting to try new things, explore new places, and build their knowledge of the world. Whether you go on a trip or workshop, climb the top rope or bouldering walls, utilize our equipment for rent, or just need a bike repair, you have the ability to make it your own at Iowa State University. Stop in and see us at State Gym - our main office is located on the lower mezzanine of State Gym 0185.

At the current time paddle sport rentals including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards have been suspended.  

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Trips and Workshops
Climbing Wall
Equipment Rental
Bike Maintenance
Upcoming Events, Trips, and Workshops

Pictured rocks backpacking

Trips & Workshops

Explore the beautiful vistas the United States has to offer with an Adventure Program trip, or hone your outdoor skills with a workshop.

Trips include transportation, food at the destination, technical equipment, logistics and reservations, and a trip leader to plan and manage the trip. Hiking, kayaking, biking, and camping trips are available at various destinations throughout the United States. Trips range in length from a day trip to a week or more.

Register for a Trip/Workshop

The Pictured Rocks Michigan Backpacking Trip was my first backpacking experience. Thanks to the skills I learned on the adventure, I now feel confident getting out and doing trips like this with friends.

Adventure Trip Participant

A women reaching for a hold on the State Gym climbing wall

Climbing Walls

Recreation Services at Iowa State University has climbing walls at State Gym and Lied Rec Center. Top Rope wall is open when staff is there to supervise while Bouldering walls open anytime facilities are open.

Top-Rope at State Gym is available with all needed equipment available on-site, free of charge. 

Climbing Wall Waiver

  • All climbers must both have a waiver on file and go through an orientation annually. 
  • Climbers will check in using climbing wall entrance to the left of facility entrance. 
  • Climbers are welcome to use personal harness, chalk bags, helmets, shoes while climbing. No personal belay devices are allowed.
Biking

Equipment Rental

Equipment rental is available at the Adventure Program desk in State Gym. Equipment rental is available for a small fee and is open to both Recreation Services members and non-members.

Equipment available for rent includes camping supplies, game equipment like sports balls and nets, bicycles, and climbing equipment. 

Equipment Request Form
Bicycle maintenance at Recreation Services

Bike Maintenance

If you're in need of a brake adjustment, quick tune, or are wanting a safety inspection on your bike, the Adventure Program has you covered. Book an appointment and bring your bike in today so you can get back to your adventure!

Make an Appointment

Upcoming Events, Trips, and Workshops

Trip Name Start Date End Date Time
Black Hills and Badlands Hiking 6/13/2026 6/19/2026 All Day
Intro to Canoe Camping, Upper Peninsula, Michigan 8/15/2026 8/20/2026 All Day
Wisconsin Whitewater Rafting & Hiking 8/6/2026 8/9/2026 All Day